Uinta County, WY (February 25, 2026) – A 22-year-old Wyoming man was killed early Saturday morning after his vehicle rear-ended a semi-truck on Interstate 80 west of Lyman.
According to the Wyoming Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 2:40 a.m. near milepost 31.3 in Uinta County.
A fatality crash summary indicates that a Freightliner combination unit was traveling westbound in the right lane of Interstate 80 when a Toyota approached from behind. Investigators reported that the Toyota driver struck the passenger side of the Freightliner near the lower right access step.
Following the initial impact, the Toyota skidded along the rear portion of the trailer’s passenger side before leaving the roadway to the right.
The driver of the Toyota, identified as Caleb Gooding, 22, did not survive his injuries. Authorities stated he was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. The driver of the semi-truck was not injured.
The crash remains under investigation.
Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Caleb Gooding.
What Makes Rear-End Collisions with Semi-Trucks So Dangerous?
Rear-end collisions involving passenger vehicles and commercial semi-trucks frequently result in severe outcomes due to the disparity in size, weight, and ride height between the vehicles.
Semi-trailers sit significantly higher off the ground than standard passenger cars. In some impacts, particularly when a smaller vehicle strikes near the rear or underside of a trailer, the front of the passenger vehicle can underride the trailer structure. This can cause catastrophic damage to the windshield area and the occupant compartment.
Early morning crashes, such as this one occurring around 2:40 a.m., may also involve reduced visibility, fatigue, or limited reaction time. Even when a driver is properly restrained with a seatbelt, the forces involved in high-speed interstate travel can lead to fatal injuries.
Investigators will continue reviewing roadway conditions, vehicle speeds, and other contributing factors as part of the ongoing examination into the crash.
